Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Business
Civil Engineer Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for civil engineer in Rhode Island, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Civil Engineer in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Engages in the practical application of physical laws and principles of engineering for the development and utilization of machines, materials, instruments, processes, and services.
- 6
Exclude persons trained in engineering but currently working in positions that do not require engineering training.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Business Regulation • State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$112,250 median (13% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Civil Engineer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.; Engages in the practical application of physical laws and principles of engineering for the development and utilization of machines, mate...).
- 6. Submit the application to RI Department of Business Regulation~State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $112,250, Civil Engineers in Rhode Island earn 13% above the national median of $99,590. Rhode Island ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$112,250Hourly estimate
$53.9713% above national median
Difference: +$12,660
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCivil Engineer Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor Civil Engineer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $118,450 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | $112,250 |
| #3 | Alaska | $107,240 |
| #4 | Washington | $105,090 |
| #5 | New Mexico | $104,600 |
Nearby States Comparison
Civil Engineer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $112,250 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $104,450 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $101,800 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
RI Department of Business Regulation • State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers
560 Jefferson Blvd, First Floor, Warwick, RI, 02886
Phone: 4018895488
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $106,950 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $57,250 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $90,040 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Claims Adjuster | $83,480 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Civil Engineer in Rhode Island?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Civil Engineers in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Civil Engineers.
What education do you need to become a Civil Engineer in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Civil Engineer licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Civil Engineer salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Civil Engineers in Rhode Island is $112,250. Salaries range from $76,090 (10th percentile) to $165,610 (90th percentile).
How does the Civil Engineer salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Civil Engineers in Rhode Island earn 13% above the national median of $99,590, with a state median of $112,250.
How many Civil Engineers work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 1,200 Civil Engineers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Civil Engineer license to Rhode Island from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Civil Engineers in Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Business Regulation / State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers. Review agency details at https://bdp.ri.gov/professional-engineers.
How often do you renew a Civil Engineer license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.